Last year around this time, I would never have considered running outside in the cold, especially if the ground was covered in snow and ice. And look at me now. A running fool!

Now since the weatherpeople are predicting a solid three to five inches of snow tonight in the Maryland area, I thought I’d take the opportunity to share my recently learned tips for running on the white stuff. This list does not cover what to wear while running in these conditions, though, so if you attempt a snow run, please make sure you dress appropriately. I’ll also throw out the caveat that I live in Maryland, not North Dakota, so my definition of “snow” might be slightly different than yours.

Tips for Running in Snow

1. Not the time for speed work. If there is snow under your feet, you probably shouldn’t go very fast. In fact, you’ll discover rather quickly that the way you run is completely altered, and it becomes hard to run fast. It’s like running on sand at the beach. The muscles in your legs adjust to the slipperyness of the ground and become almost defensive, which stabilizes your gait, slowing you down a little.
2. Up, down, paint the fence. Daniel San, it’s helpful to think of lifting your knees up and down as you run, as opposed to swiping the ground with your feet. This also shortens your gait, slowing you down. But by minimizing the movement of your shoe when it hits the ground, you’re reducing the likelihood that you’ll slip.
3. Fresh snow is better. Even though you may not want to submerge your feet in several inches of snow, it became clear to me that running on fresh powder is a lot safer than running on the packed, and possibly icy, parts. The fresh snow provides more traction for your feet. Plus, you will look super hardcore running through the un-shoveled sections of your neighborhood.
4. Don’t get hit by a car. This is very important. When it snows, snow plows typically push the snow from the road into the sides of the road, leaving little space for runners. If you have access to a sidewalk, that’s probably best. If not, um, well, just don’t get hit.
5. Be on the lookout for black ice. This could be a sub-bullet under #1. Just go slower, and watch where your feet are landing.
6. If you fall, fall into a snowbank. One of the best things about snow is how cushy it is. If you have the opportunity to determine the direction of a fall (and I realize this is not always the case), try falling smack in the middle of a snow bank. It won’t hurt and you might even like it.
7. Enjoy every second. I’ll be honest with you, running during a snow storm or right after one is one of the most peaceful and exhilarating experiences I have had as a new runner. The world seems to stop for a little while and it’s you, your breath and the road. It’s both challenging and invigorating. And it’s downright beautiful. Since you’re likely not running at your top speed, take a few moments and look around.
8. Prepare for some soreness. The first time I ran in snowy conditions I was surprised at how sore I was the next day. This is because, even though I wasn’t going very fast, I was moving my leg muscles in totally different ways. It’s all good though. Pour a glass of wine, crack open a beer or perhaps some hot tea, and relish in the accomplishment of your run. You deserve it!

Woman Running on Snow and Probably Loving It